St. Johns Homecoming Royalty: St. Johns High school seniors Tyler Secord and Emily Tahvonen were crowned as the 2017 Homecoming King and Queen during halftime festivities of the Redwings’ football game versus Battle Creek Central Friday night.
Castle St. Johns ribbon cutting held last Friday
CCAC presents 2nd Annual Starry Night event – November 10
Reminder: Hotel Open House planned for Sunday, October 22
SJHS Theatre Department to present Addams Family – November 10-12
Upcoming Dates for the Wilson Center Auditorium
Celebrates 80th birthday
CRV event coming up October 28
Halloween Events in the City of St. Johns
Illustrator’s family to host Open House – October 19–22
Veterans Dinner at Lowe UMC – November 10
Laingsburg HS to host Dinner Theatre – November 16, 17, and 18
Soup kitchen makes stops in area
Homecoming Parade lineup – an album
Celebrates 100th birthday
Benny and Jessie’s Pet Info – How to Stop Your Dog from Rolling in Poop
Letters – Street millage and more from Sam Coffman
Maralyn’s Pet Corner – 5 Ways to Help a Hiding Cat
Obituaries – Dale Walter Knight, Doris E. Byrnes, Camille Louise Stiffler
Marriage licenses filed the week of October 13, 2017
Divorce decrees filed the week of October 9, 2017
The City of St. Johns congratulated Phil Seybert, Garrett Seybert and the whole PS Equities team on the opening of their residential development on the corner of Higham Street and Spring Street, Castle St. Johns.
The ribbon cutting took place on Friday, October 13 with Mayor Beaman, Vice-Mayor Hanover and Commissioner Bob Craig attending.
CCAC presents 2nd Annual Starry Night event – November 10
The Clinton County Arts Council (CCAC) will be presenting the 2nd Annual “Starry Night Event” featuring An Evening with Paul McCartney. The event will be held at the Wilson Center Auditorium, Friday, November 10th from 7:00-9:00pm.
The Starry Night Event will showcase all the branches of the CCAC. Don’t miss performances by our very own Mint City Singers and Homegrown Productions theater group. There will also be a slideshow presentation of the Railroad Museum and the progressive addition of the Sault Ste Marie rail car.
Matt King, an amazing tribute artist for the past 25 years, will bring his wonderful impersonation of the famous Beatles singer. Matt has gained international fame as an award-winning Elvis impersonator, something he knew he wanted to do since the 8th grade. Matt has been performing his tribute to Elvis here in St. Johns at the Performance Shell for the past eight years.
We’re excited to have him back in St. Johns, this time with his great tribute to Paul McCartney. Being a huge Beatles fan, he’s been doing McCartney for the past five years and will be performing a lot of Paul’s songs from the Beatles era and some from his “Wings” days.
There will also be art for sale. A perfect opportunity to add to your collection, complete your holiday shopping or update your decor.
They will be holding a Silent Auction as well. Donations received will assist the Clinton County Arts Council to continue our mission to promote, encourage and economically support the arts, artists, and the cultural heritage of Clinton County.
Tickets are $25.00 for the event. CCAC Members receive 10% discount. Tickets can be purchased at the Art Gallery downtown St. Johns or at the door the evening of the event. Doors will open at 6:15pm. The Wilson Center is located at 101 W. Cass St., just south of the Court House in downtown St. Johns. For more information, contact Debi at 989-224-2429.
This activity is supported by the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs.
Reminder: Hotel Open House planned for Sunday, October 22
Heritage Place Hotel opened its doors on October 1 and will be welcoming the community during an Open House on Sunday 22 between 2 and 4 pm.
The hotel occupies the former St. Johns Furniture Store building and is located at 118 N. Clinton Ave.
SJHS Theatre Department to present Addams Family – November 10-12
The St. Johns High School Theatre Department is proud to present The Addams Family. America’s darkest family comes to life in this new musical comedy with the following performances:
Friday, November 10 at 7 p.m.
Saturday, November 11 at 7 p.m.
Sunday, November 12 at 2 p.m.
Tickets are now on sale online! Simply visit sjdrama.ludus.com and click “get tickets” for the show(s) you are interested in. This will pull up a seating chart that allows you to select your seats. Once you’ve selected your seats, you can checkout using a credit card. You can choose to print your tickets, have them e-mailed or sent to your smartphone. Tickets are $10. There is an online processing fee when you pay online with your card. Should you have any problems, please call Mary Donald (4134) or send an e-mail to boxoffice@sjredwings.org.
Tickets will go on sale to the public at Friday’s homecoming parade. Be sure to get yours in advance; it’s going to be a great show.
Upcoming Dates for the Wilson Center Auditorium
Friday, October 20 – Vineyard Youth Theater production of “Villian School” – 6:00 p.m.
Good Halloween fun! Visit vineyardyouththeater.com for more information!
Saturday, October 28 – Vocal Recital featuring Tenor Steve Easterling and Pianist Jeff Richards
7:00 p.m. Two Great Musicians! Broadway, Pops and Opera! Free Will Offering
Sunday, October 29 – Mountain Town Brass Band Concert – 7:00 p.m. – Free Will Offering
One of Michigan’s premier bands! Great brass music including J.P. Sousa!
Saturday, November 4 – Singers on the Grand kick off their 20th Anniversary Season – 7:00 p.m.
10 wonderful singers with a 6-piece band – Broadway, Pops, Jazz, Gospel! $10
Friday, November 10 – Clinton County Arts Council’s “2nd Annual Starry Night Gala” – 7:00 p.m.
A wonderful evening with Paul McCartney plus! Visit: clintoncountyarts.org
Friday, December 1 – Homegrown Productions annual Holiday Show – 7:30 p.m. Homegrown’s annual holiday production that will put you in a true Holiday Spirit!
Saturday, December 2 – “Elvis & Friends Toys for Tots Benefit Show” – 7:00 p.m. featuring
Willie Nelson, Roy Orbison, Elvis and more! $10 or unwrapped toy
Friday, December 8 – St. Johns Annual Community Christmas Concert – 7:00 p.m.
The St. Johns Community Band’s annual Holiday Concert! Free Will Offering
Saturday, December 9 – “Big Band Christmas Pops” with the Lansing Concert Jazz Band
7:00 p.m. – This special Jazz Holiday Concert is not to be missed!
Friday, December 15 – Mint City Singers “As the World Turns: Fall into Winter” – 7:30 p.m.
Our Community Choir sings many memorable seasonal songs. Free Will Offering
Saturday, December 16 – Mountain Town Brass Band Holiday Concert – 7:00 p.m. This special
program will feature Internationally renown brass soloists! Free Will Offering
Please check out all of our events on the Wilson Center Auditorium Web Site & Facebook page
She loves to travel, go to movies and restaurants, play dominoes, cards and other games as well as read mystery novels. Spending time with family and friends is always on the agenda.
If you would like to send her a card, please send it to 609 S. Morton Street, St. Johns, MI 48879.
CRV event coming up October 28
Mars Rover at The Community Resource Volunteers office 304 Brush St., St. Johns, will be held on Saturday, October 28, from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm.
Rover Groups of students are made into teams to guide an RC rover across a Martian-style course on a rescue mission. Go to crvonline.org to register and for more information. Deadline October 25.
Halloween Events in the City of St. Johns
Downtown St. Johns will be inhabited by ghosts and goblins during the annual “an event so good, it’s scary” on Tuesday, October 31st as daytime trick-or-treating for youngsters is offered by local merchants and businesses from 3:30 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. This event is sponsored by the Clinton County Chamber of Commerce. If you have questions please contact them at 989-224-7248.
Regular trick-or-treating will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 31, 2017 in the City of St. Johns. The beginning and ending of the candy gathering period will be signaled by the fire whistle.
Please use caution driving as there will be lots of excited children running door to door to collect candy.
Illustrator’s family to host Open House – October 19–22
The Gijsbert van Frankenhuyzen family will be hosting what may be their last Gallery/Farm Open House, Fall at the Farm. The event will be held on October 19th – 22nd.
Fall at the Farm is at Hazel Ridge Farm 7409 Clark Rd. Bath, Mi 48808. For those unable to attend, special gallery by appointment visits can be arranged. 517-641-6690 www.hazelridgefarm.com
Veterans Dinner at Lowe UMC – November 10
Lowe United Methodist Church will host a Veterans Dinner at 5:30 pm on Friday November 10. The church is located at 5485 W. Lowe Rd. St. Johns, MI.
All Veterans and guests welcome.
Laingsburg HS to host Dinner Theatre – November 16, 17, and 18
Laingsburg High School will be performing a Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre November 16, 17, and 18.
Dinner begins at 6 pm, and the show will immediately follow.
The show and dinner takes place at Laingsburg High School in the cafetorium. Tickets $15 in advance, $20 night of the show. Email LHSdinnertheater@gmail.com to reserve tickets.
Soup kitchen makes stops in area
His Cup Runneth Over, a mobile soup kitchen, will be making a stop at
– First Congregational Church, 100 Maple Ave, St. Johns 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Tuesday, October 24, and at
– Beacon of Hope/First Baptist Church, 512 S. US 27, St. Johns, from 5:30 p.m to 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 24 and at
– Four Seasons Apartments, 1268 W. Clark Rd., DeWitt, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Thursday, October 26 and at
– Ithaca Church of God, 624 Barber St., Ithaca, from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Thursday, October 26.
Soup, bread, fruit and dessert will be served to all who come free of charge. For more information call 989-533-9535 or 989-544-5764
On October 25, 1917, Louis Frederick (Fred) Mayers was born in DeWitt, Michigan to Louis and Ethyl Mayers. The family moved to St. Johns and resided in Clinton County from then on.
Fred married Claribel Wilkie in 1940 and they remained married 73 years until her death in 2013. Fred was a dairy farmer and raised 3 children on the farm.
David (Carolyn) Mayers of Fairfield, New Jersey, Phyllis (Steve) Thornburg of South Bend, Indiana, and Darlene (Howard) Bowers of Luther, Michigan, will be hosting a birthday party to celebrate his 100th year of birth in Lakeland, Florida, where he presently resides. The celebration will be held at the clubhouse annex at Citrus Woods on November 4th from 2 PM to 4 PM.
If you will be in Florida, join the children to help celebrate Fred’s special day. If not, you can send a card to wish him well at: 1610 Reynolds Road #294, Lakeland, Florida 33801
Benny and Jessie’s Pet Info – How to Stop Your Dog from Rolling in Poop
Your dog comes running up to you covered in mud. Then you take a closer look—and smell—and realize that mud would be preferable to what’s all over your dog. Yes, your furry best friend has rolled in poop, and it’s everywhere—even trapped in the folds of her collar. It’s not just time for a bath, it’s time for a decontamination.
So why do dogs like to roll in smelly things like animal carcasses and waste? While there’s no concrete evidence that points to a single reason, there are a number of theories as to why dogs anoint themselves with bad odors. It’s suggested that dogs might do it to mask their own scent in a throwback to their hunting ancestry, or as a way to bring the scent home to the rest of the pack to allow others to track back to it. But the most likely reason is that they like the stench. Remember, dogs are fascinated by things that we consider disgusting, like urine on the mailbox post and the nether-regions of other dogs. Much like humans wear scents that we enjoy, like rose or sandalwood, it’s possible that dogs like being associated with the smell of fox poop.
Preventing Poop Rolling Behavior in Dogs
It’s not easy to prevent poop rolling, particularly if you have a large yard or you allow your dog to hike off-leash. Wild animal waste can be well camouflaged, especially rabbit and deer droppings, which tend to be pellet sized and spread out. That said, most dogs have a few obvious “tells” that they exhibit right before they get ready to roll. The first step to preventing poop rolling is recognizing what happens right before it begins, and then short-circuiting the behavior.
Most dogs hone in on the odor before they dive on, so if you notice your dog focusing on a patch of ground with greater than usual intensity, it’s possible that a roll is imminent. Some dogs will even do a pre-roll pose, meaning, they rotate their face to the side and gradually descend down to the pile, almost in slow motion. (Although animal poop can end up anywhere on a dog’s body, most dogs start their roll by putting the side of their face and neck in it, which results in a very messy collar.) Once you see the signs of a potential poop roll, you need to act quickly with a strong “leave it” cue.
“Leave it” means “move away from the item of interest,” and is helpful in a number of everyday situations. If your dog picks up street garbage like chicken bones during your walks, you can ask him to “leave it” before he has a chance to put it in his mouth. If your dog wants to “help” on laundry day by grabbing socks and taking off, you can tell him to “leave it” rather than chasing her down to retrieve the contraband. And when it comes to poop rolling, a well-timed “leave it” will prevent a very messy clean-up.
Teaching Your Dog to ‘Leave It’
Before you can use “leave it” to prevent a poop dive, you need to train it in a variety of controlled situations. To begin the process, take a dry treat and present it to your dog at nose level in a closed fist so that he can smell it but can’t get to it. Your dog will likely nose and nibble your fist thinking it’ll make you open your hand, but ignore all interactions until your dog backs away from your hand. (It might take a few minutes the first time.) As soon as he moves away from your hand, say “yes!” or click with a clicker to mark the behavior, and give your dog an extra special treat like chicken or cheese from your other hand. The treat in your fist represents the contraband you want your dog to move away from, so never reward her with it.
When your dog is reliably backing away every time you present your closed fist, you can begin to name the behavior by saying “leave it” right as your dog moves away. It’ll take about 20 repetitions before the phrase is anchored to the behavior and your dog understands what it means. At that point, make it more challenging by placing the dry treat on the floor under your shoe. Your dog will probably go through the same nibble-lick-paw process initially, but the second she backs away, say “yes!” or click and reward your dog from your hand.
Repeat this process a dozen times, rewarding each success and work up to adding the phrase “leave it.” Once your dog is consistently moving away from the treat under your foot, try a few repetitions where you move your foot away from the treat so your dog can see it (but be ready to cover it back up again if your dog makes a dive for it). Reward your dog for the same movement away from the treat. You can also try a few surprise training sessions by dropping something your dog finds intriguing, like a crumpled up paper towel or sock, and asking her to “leave it.” These unexpected sessions help to generalize the behavior.
Finally, take your training outside. Set up a gauntlet of mildly interesting items a few feet apart like toys, used napkins, socks, and food wrappers. (If you’re concerned that your dog might grab the items before you have a chance to cue “leave it,” put her on a leash, and consider revisiting the initial training steps.) Stroll with your dog toward your planted items, and right as your dog starts to zone in on it, say “leave it.” At this point, the cue should have such a strong and positive association that your dog will quickly orient to you in order to get the reward. Don’t forget to praise your dog lavishly.
To finalize the training, envision what a preempted poop roll will look like in your yard or on the trail. More than likely, your dog will be at a distance from you, so practice this critical part of the process by cuing a “leave it” when your dog isn’t right next to you. Praise her when she looks up from the object of interest, then kneel down and encourage her to run to you for a goody. Because rolling in poop is so rewarding, preempting it is a big deal, so give your dog lots of love for a job well done, and try to find a poop-free zone to hang out to avoid further temptation.
Letters – Street millage and more from Sam Coffman
Improved Street Condition Reduces Clinton Transit Repair Costs
Clinton Area Transit System (Clinton Transit) needs good roads and streets to operate efficiently. There is a higher cost for repair and maintenance with poor streets and roads. As public transportation, we have no choice but to fix our buses and pay these higher costs. Clinton Transit services all of Clinton County with public transportation service, so it is difficult to determine the exact cost of maintenance due solely to the poor condition of streets in the City of St. Johns.
I am pleased that the City of St. Johns is continuing to repair their streets. Investment in maintaining good repair for the streets will not only help Clinton Transit, but also the homeowners and businesses in St. Johns. Good transportation and good streets encourage growth in our community.
I encourage voters to support the St. Johns Street millage on the November 7th ballot.
Sincerely,
Dawn Benson, General Manager
Clinton Area Transit System
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Taxes. No other word causes moans and groans from citizens like that one. Most of what we pay in taxes is spent in ways that we cannot easily see.
On Tuesday, November 7th we will be able to vote on something we can see – our streets. The modest (actually reduction) millage will continue the work to make our St. Johns streets safe and smooth. The money will be spent on the streets and related improvements and only for that. Ultimately it is a small price to pay for big improvements that benefit all of us.
Remember to vote on Tuesday, November 7th and join me in voting “Yes” for our streets.
Terry Clarke
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I attached a picture of myself speaking to 30 students in the SJHS auditorium last week. Teachers Kathy Heystek and Jaclyn Charneski had their classes attend my one hour talk on October 4.
Sam Coffman
Maralyn’s Pet Corner – 5 Ways to Help a Hiding Cat
It’s hard to say if Garfield started the stereotype of the mischievous, anti-social cat, but he certainly reinforced it, and to be fair, there’s some basis in truth.
While some cats are friendly and cuddly, many others spend their days in dark enclosed spaces and prowl the house at night.
“A lot of cats lead nocturnal lives,” says Myrna Milani, DVM, an author and veterinary scholar in the fields of pathology and anthrozoology.
If your cat usually spends its day hidden, that’s generally fine and normal, Milani says. The problem arises, however, when social cats suddenly start hiding. This behavior is often indicative of stress, fear, a medical issue, or some combination of these.
Continue reading for tips on identifying problematic forms of hiding behavior in cats and what you can do to resolve the underlying issue.
Allow Your Cat to Warm Up to Visitors
One of the primary causes of stress in cats is a change in their environments, and one big change that often induces hiding is the addition of a new person to the household.
Whether this is in the form of a temporary visitor or a permanent resident, cats are naturally inclined to assume a new person is a threat to their territory. (The same goes for the addition to a new animal.) As such, you might find your feline hiding or marking areas with her scent.
Milani says it’s important to give a cat time to adjust to the change and accept the new person on her own terms. “The worst thing you can tell the new person to do is play nice and ‘kissy face’ with the cat,” she says.
Instead, short-term visitors can sit near the hiding spot and let the cat come to them, maybe coaxing her out with a treat or a toy that will boost her confidence and make her feel more like predator than prey.
Milani suggests longer-term visitors or new permanent residents rub themselves all over with a dry towel or washcloth. Then, leave the towel in the middle of the floor overnight and allow the cat to explore the scent on her own time and at her own speed.
The cat should start feeling more comfortable the next day, though if the towel has been peed on, “That’s a message, and you need to keep being patient,” Milani says.
Try to Normalize a New Environment
Another cause of this type of stress is a move. It might take your cat a while to adjust to the new house, and that’s made worse, Milani says, the more you change things around. Trying to give your cat normalcy in a new house—whether that’s setting up her cat tree by a window or avoiding clutter with empty boxes—will help your cat adjust.
“I know it’s not what people who move want to hear, but the best thing you can do for a cat after a move is to unpack everything and settle in as quickly as possible,” she says.
Give Your Cat a Safe Space
It’s not uncommon for cats to be fearful of visitors or changes in their environments or routines. Fear in cats is often marked by prey behavior, which includes running away and hiding.
Dilara G. Parry, a certified cat behavior consultant, says “safe spaces” are an easy way for the owner to make sure that the hiding that’s taking place is healthy and safe.
“A sturdy cardboard box, turned on its side with a nice blanket placed inside, can be an alluring hiding space that is safe,” Parry says.
Milani adds that cutting a cat-sized hole in an upside-down cardboard box is another great DIY safe space because the cat can face the opening and know nothing is coming up behind her.
Monitor Your Cat’s Behavior Changes
Hiding behavior in cats could signal an illness or serious medical condition, and owners need to pay attention when this behavior emerges and is out of the ordinary.
Milani says if a cat begins hiding, it’s paramount that the owner monitors the cat’s eating, drinking, urinating, and defecating. She recommends blocking off the bathroom to the cat and marking his water dish with a marker so you know exactly how much water is being consumed every day.
Other easily observable signs of an illness or condition that’s forcing hiding are discharge from the eyes or nose, limping, and non-specific diarrhea.
Make an Appointment With Your Vet
If your cat is suddenly hiding, and seems more antisocial than normal, a visit to the veterinarian is recommended to rule out any medical issues. After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
“Sometimes, the first indication to the guardian that their cat is sick is hiding behavior,” Parry says. “I have seen this in cases of urinary blockage, which can quickly turn fatal if untreated, so I definitely urge guardians to take hiding behavior seriously, especially if it is not ‘par for the course’ for that particular cat.”
Dale Walter Knight passed away October15, 2017. Dale was the middle son of five boys born to Oliver and Gina Knight on December 4, 1932. The Knight boys worked the Knight Farm, hunted and played together for their entire lives. Oliver Knight proudly watched and participated in the daily baseball while Gina Louise Knight cooked. Grandma had one rule at dinner: no one touches the food till she had her plate. Apparently five boys all over six feet and weighing near 200 Lbs. would inhale a meal in minutes. Grandma had to make sure she got her share.
The fall hunting season for Deer and Pheasant were Dale’s best times with his brothers and father. All five boys, Kendall, Alden, Dale, Doug and Rex plus Oliver, would gather in Gina Knight’s mud-room after a full day hunting to sit, tell stories and laugh loudly. The Knight Farm was a lightning rod for the family. And the boys stayed close through their entire lives.
Dale’s 13th year loomed large in his life. He met Beverly Jane Spousta, whom he dated throughout school and married. That same year Dale went out for center on the St. Johns High School Team. (At the advice of his brother Aldie. Aldie told Dale to go out for center if he wanted to play Varsity Football.) Dale made the team, and his life was on a path that would never change.
The Knight Boys reigned over Mid-Michigan High School Sports for nearly a decade. The St. Johns Redwing Football teams recorded four straight undefeated seasons from 1947 to 1951. Dale’s junior year team started the streak,and his brother Doug played on the 1950 and ’51 unbeaten teams. Dale played halfback his Sophomore, Junior and Senior years, setting scoring and yardage records that still stand today. Dale gained 3088 yards scoring 324 points, averaging 21 points and 190 yards a game his senior year. Dale was named to the Mid-Michigan hall of fame and voted the best football player in St. Johns history at the St. Johns Sports Hall of Fame inaugural event.
Football took Dale to college, winning a scholarship with the Michigan State College Football team. The Spartans were about to begin one of the most fabled runs in College Football history, winning one national championship, a Big Ten Title and a Rose Bowl win in Dale’s four years on the team. Dale Graduated from MSU with a Bachelor of Science and returned to gain his Master’s Degree in Administration. Dale Knight and Jane Spousta were married December 28th, 1952. Dale and Jane were married 62 years.
Dale passed up the chance for a pro-football career and took a teaching/coaching position in St. Johns in 1954. He coached for several years and became an administrator in the school system retiring in 1980. Dale’s tenure influenced countless students, both in athletics and academics.
Jane Knight contracted Alzheimer’s in her early 70’s. Dale distinguished himself with his loving care of Jane, visiting her daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. His loyalty and love is a guiding light for his children and grandchildren. Arielle Hernandez was Jane’s caretaker. She was with Jane when she died. Arielle saw how loving Jane was and witnessed Dale’s devotion to his wife. She insisted on taking care of Dale in his final month, spending endless hours ensuring his comfort and safety. She was with Dale when he passed. Our family is in debt to Arielle for her kindness and caring. She will always be part of the Knight Family.
Dale was blessed with a new friend after Jane’s death. Jan Vermeersch and Dale began a fast friendship that would last till Dale’s passing. Dale enjoyed Jan’s family. Jan was at Dale’s bedside the hour of his death.
Dale and Jane are survived by two children, daughter Diane (Sis) and son Kevin (Butch.) Diane and Kevin celebrate Dale’s life as do her four grandchildren, Emily (Diane’s Beautiful Daughter,) Cameron, Landon and Elizabeth Knight.
The family will celebrate Dale’s life with a Memorial on Friday, October 20, 2017 at Andy T’s Barn 3647 S. Williams Rd, Saint Johns, Michigan 48879.Please send flowers to: Andy T’s Barn 3647 S. Williams Rd, Saint Johns, Michigan 48879. The Memorial will begin at 2:00 PM. There will be an open house directly after.
For those desiring, contributions may be made in memory of Dale Knight to the St. Johns High School Athletic Hall of Fame: St. Johns High School, Attn: SJHS Athletic Hall of Fame 501 W. Sickels Street, St. Johns, MI 48879, (989) 227-4134. Online donations can be made to: www.sjredwings.org.
Doris E. Byrnes, 87 of Ovid passed away at Hazel Findlay Country Manor on Friday, October 13, 2017. Doris was born on March 10, 1930 in Victor Township the daughter of Floyd and Irene (Austin) Upton. She graduated from Ovid High School in the class of 1947 and on June 19, 1948 she married Hugh Byrnes in Laingsburg. He preceded her in death on September 8, 1985. Doris was a homemaker and also worked for the Ovid Post Office for 23 years before her retirement. She was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church, the Acme Club, enjoyed a good book, musical theatre and lunches out with family and friends.
Survivors are her children, Bruce Byrnes of Ewen, Randy (Verna Lyon) Byrnes of Ovid MI, Denise Byrnes of Lansing, MI and daughter-in-law Karen Byrnes of Chassell, MI. She was preceded in death by son, Gary Byrnes in November of 2013. Also surviving are grandchildren, Matt (Kristi) Byrnes of Ovid, Hillary (Nick) Fabus of Elsie, Erica DePond of Laingsburg and Molly (Duane) DePond of Ovid. Six great grandchildren-Ethan, Calen, and Braylon Byrnes, Chase and Cade Fabus and Connor Call, also sister-in-law Waneta Byrnes of Ovid and many nieces and nephews and friends. She was predeceased by sisters, Virginia Dunkel and Barbara Vaniman and her parents.
The family will receive friends and relatives at Keck-Coleman Funeral Home, St. Johns on Monday, Oct. 16, 2017, 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Rosary will be prayed at 7:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Family Catholic Church on Tuesday, October 17, 2017 at 11:00 am with Rev Fr. Raymond Urbanek officiating. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be given to Ovid Public Library or to the Ovid Lions Club.
We would like to thank the caring and compassionate staff at Hazel I. Findlay County Manor, Ovid Healthcare Center and Compassus Hospice.
Camille Louise Stiffler
Camille Louise Stiffler, age 58, of St. Johns, MI passed away Thursday, October 12, 2017.
Honoring Cam’s wishes there will be no services.
Cam was born on October 5, 1959 in St. Johns, MI. She graduated from St. Johns High School with the class of 1978. At the age of sixteen she started dispatching weekends and holidays at the St. Johns Police Department under Police Chief Lyle French, whom she always admired. Upon graduation she moved into a full time midnight position with the Police Department until the 911 Central Dispatch was established. She then took a position as the city account clerk/casher until her retirement in August 2013. She was a member of the Hospital Auxiliary and volunteered in the gift shop. She cherished the “Three Z’s” and the fine young men they have become. She loved her cat Lilly, lunch dates and traveling with friends.
Cam is survived by father Jim Stiffler and his special friend Barb Powers, sister Chris (Mark) Grennell, nephews; Zachary, Zane, and Zarren, aunt and uncle Bette (Ben) Munger, and cousins; Heidi (Andrew) Sung, Chad (Tracy) Munger. She is preceded in death by mother Barb, grandparents; Richard and Helen Johnson, and Louis and Nettie Stiffler.
Memorial contributions may be made to Sparrow Clinton Hospital Auxiliary. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes – Osgood Chapel, St. Johns, MI.
Marriage licenses filed the week of October 13, 2017
Jeffrey William Stewart, 32 of St. Johns and Kasey Corrine Clark, 26 of St. Johns
Ryan Michael Gilbert, 31 of Ovid and Danielle Lee Hufnagel, 29 of Fowler
Todd Christian Emerson, 36 of Lansing and Amy Christine Fancett, 32 of Lansing
Michael James Hall, 46 of St. Johns and Barbara Jeanette Schultz, 44 of St. Johns
Zachary Howard Martens, 26 of DeWitt and Victoria Michelle Schneeberger-Webster, 24 of Lansing
Matthew James Hess, 35 of Lansing and Jennifer Gloria Zumbrink, 37 of East Lansing
Zachery Lawrence Slater, 27 of East Lansing and Rachel Christie McDaniel, 23 of East Lansing
David James Guy, 26 of St. Johns and Brandye Autumn Baker, 31 of St. Johns
David Ronald Sichau, 28 of DeWitt and Danielle Lynn Mazure, 26 of Perrinton
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Grant Michael Blood II, 30 of East Lansing and Jenna Suzanne Brown, 30 of East Lansing
Chadrick Earl Smedley, 43 of Laingsburg and Emily Lane Crampton, 30 of Laingsburg
Eric Steven Thelen, 26 of Fowler and Brittany Ann Fox, 25 of Fowler
Tony Leigh Lamson, 53 of Grand Ledge and Jessica Lee Robinson, 47 of Grand Ledge
Timothy Charles Mulvaney, 35 of Lansing and Sarah Nichole Rapelje, 36 of Lansing
Ricky James Parker II, 36 of Lansing and Katie Elizabeth Blaisdell, 24 of Lansing
Joseph Andrew Faggion III, 33 of DeWitt and Heather Anne de Bari, 27 of DeWitt
Chad Christopher Fiebig II, 24 of St. Johns and Hallie Jo Vail, 21 of St. Johns
Domestic Violence Awareness Month: Officer Greg Spitler adds a ribbon provided by The SafeCenter to his patrol car today. All SJPD cars will display the purple ribbon this month.
Homecoming 2017 for St. Johns Redwings is this weekend
Illustrator’s family to host Open House – October 19–22
Celebrate Fire Prevention Week
Halloween Events in the City of St. Johns
SJPD welcomes new officer
CRV to sponsor Girls Exploring Math, Science – October 18
Fire Hydrant Flushing
CRV collecting empty ink cartridges
Briggs District Library News
Soup kitchen makes stops in area
CASA Volunteer Advocates Needed
Habitat for Humanity hosted its Dream Builders Gala – with an album
National Writing Award presented
Benny and Jessie’s Pet Info – How to Find Your Dog’s Body Condition Score
Letters – Street millage and Thanksgiving postponed
Maralyn’s Pet Corner – Epileptic Seizures in Cats
Obituaries – Patricia J. Gregory, Lois Nell Lowe, Linda K. Langlois, David Russell Swanson, Ella C. Dellamater, Linda M. Downs
Marriage licenses filed the week of October 2, 2017
Divorce decrees filed October 2, 2017
Homecoming 2017 for St. Johns Redwings is this weekend
All the usual festivities will be on tap this weekend during Homecoming 2017 at St. Johns High School.
The fun begins at 5 p.m., Friday, October 13, with the traditional Homecoming parade on Clinton Avenue in downtown St. Johns.
Following the parade, the Redwings take on Battle Creek Central at 7 p.m. at the SJHS football stadium where Homecoming Royalty will reign during halftime festivities, culminating with the announcement of the 2017 King and Queen.
The weekend concludes with the Homecoming Dance at 8 p.m., Saturday, in the SJHS auxiliary gym.
Class representatives and Homecoming King and Queen candidates are (front row, l-r): Freshmen Representative, Kendall Slamka, Sophomore Representative, Erin Middleton, Junior Representative, Aly Gonzales; Senior Court, Mary Billips, Danielle Brewbaker, Jessica Heyer, Hana Knowlton, Olivia Maurer and Emily Tahvonen; (back row, l-r): Freshmen Representative, Evan Kiel, Sophomore Representative, Zach Brown, Junior Representative, Gabe McClain; Senior Court, Joey Fox, Aidan Grady, Dillan Haviland, Jacob Kaczander, Trevor Luznak and Tyler Secord.
Illustrator’s family to host Open House – October 19–22
The Gijsbert van Frankenhuyzen family will be hosting what may be their last Gallery/Farm Open House, Fall at the Farm. The event will be October 19th – 22nd.
“It may be our last open house,” say van Frankenhuyzen. “It takes weeks of preparation for our event; and even though it is great fun meeting old and new friends, retirement is calling our names.”
Karyn Tuma from Ovid says of the event, “We love this opportunity as a family every year to explore the farm and stock up on honey. We just love how their books come to life for our girls as we explore the farm. We will be sure to cherish this year and will miss it when it is gone.”
Open House hours are Thursday and Friday 4 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. The expanded weekend hours, with a room full of refreshments, are Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Prints, originals and all of their book titles will be available for purchase with several door prizes given away. They encourage folks to come in casual wear to hike the five miles of trails through the 40 acres of beautiful wetlands, woodlands and prairies. This event is free and open to the public.
“Several years ago we put our property into a conservation easement protecting it from any future development,” explains van Frankenhuyzen , “and we encourage others to walk the property in hopes it will inspire them to do the same.”
Fall at the Farm is at Hazel Ridge Farm 7409 Clark Rd. Bath, Mi 48808. For those unable to attend, special gallery by appointment visits can be arranged. 517-641-6690 www.hazelridgefarm.com
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Illustrator Gijsbert van Frankenhuyzen’s newest children’s book, Skydiving Beavers of Idaho; a true story, was honored with the 2017 Preferred Choice Award, awarded by 2017 Creative Child Magazine Awards Program consisting of moms and educators.
A true tale of an age old problem: the clash for living space between nature and humans. Conservationists from the Idaho Fish and Game Department find a unique and humane solution to the conflict. See the YouTube footage of the real story.
Celebrate Fire Prevention Week
Allaby & Brewbaker Insurance partnered once again with the St Johns Firefighters to promote fire safety by giving fire truck rides to the third grade classes. This is always a Highlight in the 3rd grader’s year. Allaby & Brewbaker also supplies fire hats.
Thanks to the firefighters who volunteer to make this a memorable event for the kids. Pictured above is the 3rd grade class from St. Joseph School.
Halloween Events in the City of St. Johns
Downtown St. Johns will be inhabited by ghosts and goblins during the annual “an event so good, it’s scary” on Tuesday, October 31st as daytime trick-or-treating for youngsters is offered by local merchants and businesses from 3:30 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. This event is sponsored by the Clinton County Chamber of Commerce. If you have questions please contact them at 989-224-7248.
Regular trick-or-treating will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 31, 2017 in the City of St. Johns. The beginning and ending of the candy gathering period will be signaled by the fire whistle.
Please use caution driving as there will be lots of excited children running door to door to collect candy.
SJPD welcomes new officer
St. Johns Police Department welcomed Officer Tyler Kinsey. Officer Kinsey is a graduate of Lansing Community College, and he comes to us from the Alma Police Department. He and his wife Cassondra continue to reside in St. Johns.
CRV to sponsor Girls Exploring Math, Science – October 18
The Community Research Volunteers “Girls Exploring Math & Science” group will have their first meeting for Middle School young ladies on Wednesday, October 18 at 6:30 pm at the CRV office at 304 Brush St., St. Johns.
Come join them for an evening and learn what the group has to offer in science with ice breakers and fun. Call 517-672-4226 for more details and register online at crvonline.org.
Fire Hydrant Flushing
The City of St. Johns Water Department personnel will be flushing all fire hydrants in the city. Flushing of the hydrants is done in spring and fall.
The schedule for flushing will be:
– M-21 North from October 2-16, 2017
– M-21 South from October 17-30, 2017
Flushing will be done between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
If you have any questions, please call the Water Department at 224-8944 ext. 235 or ext. 282 between the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
CRV collecting empty ink cartridges
Community Resource Volunteers, a nonprofit agency who works with youth to teenagers, will be collecting empty ink cartridges to help fund science and robotic programs and other community services.
Please drop off your cartridges at the following locations: St. Vicent DePaul, 1009 S Highway 27, Huntington Bank, 200 W. Higham, Clinton Transit 215 N. Scott Rd. CRV 304 Brush St., all in St. Johns and Motz Builders 116 West Main St., DeWitt.
For more information about CRV and our events please go to www.crvoline.org. or call CRV 517-672-4226. Thank you for your support.
Briggs District Library News
Thank You to St. Joseph School – A big thank you to St. Joseph School for starting our “Socktober Sock Drive” with over 200 pairs of socks for all ages. Many toes will be warm this winter! The sock drive will continue the whole month of October. Donations of new or homemade socks for children and adults may be brought into the library. The socks will then be donated to local charities. Please join us in a simple and meaningful way to help families and friends who are in need.
Halloween Cartoon and Craft – A Spook-takular hour of fun for children ages 6-9 (years of age) on Tuesday, October 24 from 6:30-7:30. The Library will provide the ghoulishly delightful delicacies, creepy crawly crafts and participants will watch a short Halloween themed cartoon. Register in person, online, or by phone.
Teen Advisory Board – The library’s Teen Advisory Board (TAB), helps to plan library programs, makes recommendations concerning the Young Adult collection, and serves the library as volunteers. All interested teens are invited to learn more about TAB at our informational meeting, Monday, October 23 from 7:30-8:00. Questions can be emailed to Brett at bharger@briggsdistrictlibrary.org.
Fall Garden Tuck-in and S’mores Roast – Come help Ms. Liz and Ms. Erin prepare our Children’s Garden for the winter on Saturday Oct. 28 from 4-6pm. We will then be celebrating a successful year of gardening by having a s’mores roast. This is a family program so everyone is welcome. Registration is currently open and we will be excited to see you there.
Trick or Treat at the Library – Join in the spirit of Halloween by visiting the library on Tuesday, October 31! Come in your costume between 3-5pm and select a treat for yourself. All ages welcome.
Chapter Chatter – “Super Happy Party Bears” Party kids ages 6 to 8 years old (independent listeners) are invited to join us on the 4 Mondays in November to …PARTY DOWN! Mark your calendar for fun on November 6- 27, 7 – 7:45 pm. Staff will read the chapter story, Gnawing Around by M. Colleen, the 1st in the series Super Happy Party Bears. We will have a super happy snack each week. And how can you have a party without some games? Registration is open and just waiting for you!
Thanksgiving Program – Ages 3 to 6 years old (independent listeners), Wednesday, November 8, 6:30-7:30 pm. We will enjoy stories of being thankful, a craft, game and “yummy” snack. Registration is required and begins on October 11.
Toddler Story-Time – “Seasons Come and Seasons Go” Ages 2-3 years old with a participating adult. This session will be offered on Wednesday mornings from 10:30-11:00 am starting October 25th and going through November 15th. We will enjoy stories, music, creative movement, crafts, games and lots of fun. Registration is required.
Therapy Dog Tutor “Ruger” – Tale to Tail Program – We are excited to be continuing this FREE Reading Program. It is a read aloud program with “Ruger” a certified therapy dog for children ages 6 to 12 years old. Children can bring their choice of tale to read to our Tail Waggin’ Tutor. We offer our Quiet Study Room in the Library from 6:30 to 7:30 pm on Thursday evenings with each child having a 15-minute session with Ruger. Dates available are November 30, and December 14. This service can be used to encourage confidence and reading skills in a relaxing environment. Registration is required and is open at this time.
Boookaholics Book Club – There is still time to read the October selection of the Bookaholics book club, ECHO, the 2016 Newbery-honored novel by Pam Munoz Ryan. The story begins with Otto, lost and alone in a forbidden forest, where he meets three mysterious sisters and suddenly finds himself entwined in a puzzling quest involving a prophecy, a promise, and a harmonica. Readers will follow the very same harmonica across the decades, landing in the hands of three different children. All the children face daunting challenges: rescuing a father, protecting a brother, holding a family together. And ultimately, these seemingly independent, solo stories converge in an orchestral crescendo. We will meet to discuss the book at the library on Thursday, October 19 at 6:30p.m. New members are always welcome.
Library Closure – The Library will be closing at 6:00 pm on Tuesday October 31. The drop box on the Library porch will be available for returns throughout this closure.
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Contact Information:
Library Director: Sara Morrison
Phone: 989-224-4702 * Fax: 989-224-1205
E-mail: director@briggsdistrictlibrary.org
Street address: 108 E Railroad * Saint Johns, MI 48879
Soup kitchen makes stops in area
His Cup Runneth Over, a mobile soup kitchen, will be making a stop at
– First Congregational Church, 100 Maple Ave, St. Johns 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Tuesday, October 17, and at
– Middleton Community Church, 223 S. Newton, Middleton, from 5 p.m to 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, October 17, and at
– Carson City Linden Apartments, 320 E Linden St., Carson City, Thursday, October 19 from 11 a.m to 1 p.m, and at
– Pompeii United Methodist Church, 135 W. Burton, Pompeii, from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday, October 19.
Soup, bread, fruit and dessert will be served to all who come free of charge. For more information call 989-533-9535 or 989-544-5764
CASA Volunteer Advocates Needed
CASA-The Voice for Clinton County’s Children is currently accepting applications for our next CASA Volunteer Advocate Training.
Those interested in serving as a CASA Advocate must submit a volunteer application, completely pass a criminal and personal background check, and participate in our 30-hour pre-service training.
Applicants should have ample time to visit their appointed child every 7 to 10 days (activities during visits may include playing games, playing outside, helping with homework, coloring, etc.). Our program continues to work toward our goal of having enough CASA Advocates for every Clinton County child who is in foster care.
Habitat for Humanity hosted its Dream Builders Gala – with an album
Last Friday night Habitat for Humanity hosted its Dream Builders Gala – An Evening In Oz. They had great Stars and professionals who really danced their hearts out.
Thank you to Jim Geyer, Dean Hartenburg, Pastor Rick Ruble and Matthew Ryan Smith for your willingness to support Habitat through your rockin’ dance moves. Thank you Ernest Werth-Toward for being a great emcee again this year.
And congratulations to Dean Hartenburg and his daughter for performing the winning dance routine.
National Writing Award presented
At the Annual Association of Great Lakes Outdoor Writer’s fall conference held at Lake of the Woods, Minnesota, Bob Holzhei placed third in the Awards-In-Craft Competition in the Best of Newspaper Category.
The award was presented for a hunting story titled “Are Turkey Hunts Actually All About the Gear?” The story was published in Midwest Outdoors, a monthly publication distributed throughout the Midwest.
At the annual conference Holzhei along with Joe Henry, Lake of the Woods Tourism Executive Director presented the Keynote Tourism Session to the membership. Approximately 200 plus outdoor writers, tourism professionals, and industry representatives from the U. S. attend the annual conference.
In addition, Holzhei, has presented a New Member Session yearly and also presented a Session on Self-Publishing.
“I am honored to continue to teach and write in an active retirement,” concluded Holzhei.
Benny and Jessie’s Pet Info – How to Find Your Dog’s Body Condition Score
We all know that body weight is not the only factor to determine whether we are too thin or too heavy. Muscle mass and body fat also come into play, which is why doctors often measure our Body Mass Index, a measurement that takes these factors into account in addition to the number on the scale. The same is true for dogs. Regularly weighing them is important, but to determine if your dog is under- or overweight, you will want to calculate his Body Condition Score (BCS).
This is a visual, hands-on assessment of your dog’s levels of lean muscle and fat and is an important measurement of his health, said Dr. Matthew Rooney, owner of Aspen Meadow Veterinary Specialists in Longmont, Colo. “Just as people need to maintain a good healthy body weight and condition […] a healthy BCS means that your dog is not too skinny or fat.”
This score adds much-needed value and context to what is otherwise just a number on a scale, agreed Dr. Susan O’Bell, staff veterinarian at the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animal’s Angell Animal Medical Center in Boston.
Here, find out how to understand how the scoring works and how to take this measurement at home.
How Does BCS Determine if a Dog is Over or Underweight?
A BCS is based on four criteria: how easily felt the ribs are, how obvious the waist and abdominal tuck is, how much excess fat is beneath the skin and how much muscle mass is present. For a dog to score in the healthy range, the ribs should be easy to feel (but not see) and a defined waist, or “abdominal tuck,” should be evident when your dog is viewed from the top and side respectively, O’Bell says. Depending on the thickness of your dog’s coat, you might have to feel for a defined waist or tuck if it is not readily visible.
An overweight dog would have a visibly sagging stomach, no discernible waist, ribs that are difficult to feel under fat and a back that is flat and broad. On a very underweight dog, ribs, spine and other bones would be visible from a distance. The higher the BCS, the fatter and less healthy the dog is, Rooney says, and conversely, the lower the score, the thinner the dog is. A too-thin dog can also be unhealthy.
Scoring is based on either a five or nine-point scale. The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention offers guidelines with descriptions and images based on a five-point system, while O’Bell uses a nine-point system to score her patients. Using the nine-point scale, an ideal score is a four or five, with lower numbers (one to three) being too thin and higher numbers (six to nine) being overweight or obese, she says.
In general, a dog’s age does not come into play when measuring body condition, Rooney says. However, spaying or neutering your pet greatly influences metabolism, so you might need to discuss dietary changes with your vet to keep your dog in the healthy range after they have had this procedure. Also, aging pets tend to have more chronic health issues, which can reduce their amount of lean muscle mass and activity levels and can also require dietary changes to maintain health, O’Bell says.
How Can Pet Parents Measure Body Condition Score at Home?
Ask your vet for the scoring system he or she prefers or find a detailed scoring chart online. Your dog should be standing during the assessment. O’Bell describes how to assess your dog using the chart as guide:
To begin, gently press your hands over the rib cage. Individual ribs should be evident without having to press hard, but they should not be readily felt. There should be no overlying fat, and they should not be seen readily.
There should be a nice, seemingly proportionate “abdominal tuck” or “hourglass” when palpating your dog’s waist from the side or along his back. Physically palpating is particularly important in dogs with excess fur. Dogs that are too thin will have bony prominences, particularly over the hip bones, shoulder blades and ribs. Dogs who are obese will have excessive soft or fatty areas that are evident, and it will be more difficult or impossible to feel their ribs or hip bones.
Remember, measuring your dog’s BCS at home should not replace a veterinary visit. “Stay in close communication with your veterinarian if you think your dog’s body weight and/or BCS is changing at all,” O’Bell says.
What Should Pet Parents do if Their Dog’s Score is Unhealthy?
“A very useful way for me to help clients know the ideal weight of their dogs is to see if we have a weight range in his history that matches up to a perfect four or five score on a nine-point scale,” O’Bell says. This can guide whatever steps are needed.
If your dog is overweight, Rooney suggests asking your vet about switching to diet dog foods or cutting back on the amount your dog is eating. “Introduce exercise gradually if your dog has been a couch potato, starting with a brisk walk of 10 to 15 minutes,” he adds. “It often takes two to three months for a dog to lose noticeable weight, so don’t try to rush it too much.”
If your dog is underweight — perhaps he is a new rescue who was underfed — consult your vet about a healthy way for him add weight. For example, Rooney says, higher-calorie diets are available. A dog that is too skinny might also be having difficulty eating, from teeth or jaw problems, Rooney added, or have problems with digestion or underlying illness. Always consult your vet to rule out illness.
Maintaining your dog’s healthy weight is a perfect balance of scientific recommendations and common sense, O’Bell says. Rely on your veterinarian and monitor your dog’s diet between weigh-ins and BCS measurements.
Letters – Street millage and Thanksgiving postponed
St. Johns earns Street Millage approval
Four years ago St. Johns voters approved a plan to pay for the improvement of city streets – 4 mills for 4 years and 12 miles of streets in all parts of the city are today almost like new. We voted; the City acted according to plan.
The City has earned the new program at 3 mills for 5 years to continue the work. 10 miles of improved streets in all parts of the city at less cost than before. Let’s get it done. We’ve all earned it.
Vote Yes on Street Millage November 7th.
John Sirrine
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Thanksgiving 2017 Postponed
The organizing committee for the St. Johns area Community Thanksgiving Dinner decided not to hold the feast in November 2017.
Instead they will build a larger committee with people from more community organizations and churches. The goal is to have direct communication with many more people in order to invite larger numbers of people to the feast.
Another important goal is to emphasize that the community dining is not so much a quick economical pitstop, but rather is a chance to see and hear others you may only know from a distance. Sitting down and sharing food is an ancient social experience that is worth a lot in our fast-paced times.
If you or your organization would like to be part of this expanded process of gearing up for a big feast in 2018 and learn from the other community feasts around the state, please leave a message at the First Congregational Church office (989-224-2636, or email first.congregational.church.sj@gmail.com.
Guven Witteveen
Maralyn’s Pet Corner – Epileptic Seizures in Cats
Epilepsy is a disease that is characterized by convulsions (seizures), and sometimes the two terms are confused.
Symptoms and Types
A seizure may have several symptoms or only a few, including:
– Loss of consciousness
– Muscle contraction
– Hallucinations
– Involuntarily urination, defecation, drooling (salivation)
– Loss of recognition of owner
– Vicious behavior
– Pacing
– Running in circles
A typical seizure will have three components. In the first (aural) stage, the cat’s behavior will be out of the ordinary. It may hide, seem nervous, or search for its owner. It may be restless, shaking, or drooling (salivating). The aural phase may last from a few seconds to a few hours.
The second phase is the seizure itself and will last from a few seconds to about five minutes. All of the muscles of the body may contract. The cat may fall on its side and seem unaware of what is going on. The head will be thrown backward by the convulsions. It will probably urinate, defecate, and drool (salivate). If this lasts more than five minutes, the seizure is said to be prolonged.
A seizure is frightening for the onlooker, but you need to know that the cat is not in pain. To avoid being bitten, do not put your fingers in its mouth. You will want to protect the cat from hurting itself, but it is better to leave it on the floor. The cat will need treatment if its body temperature rises dramatically.
Following the seizure, the cat will be confused and unaware (disoriented). It will drool and pace. There may be temporary blindness. The length of this phase is not related to the length of the seizure itself.
If your cat is having a seizure, pay attention to the details. Your veterinarian will need specific details to make the proper pre-diagnosis. You should observe breathing patterns, motion or rigidity of limbs, eye dilation or motion, salivation, body twisting, and muscle twitching. Your veterinarian will want to know how long the seizure lasted as well, make a note of that. Once the seizure is over, your presence and attention will comfort your cat as he regains consciousness.
Causes
Seizures may be caused by a variety of factors such as injury (trauma), infections, tumors, epilepsy, and ingestion of or exposure to toxic chemicals. If your cat has a seizure, the first goal should be to figure out what caused it. A seizure should not be left untreated because it may be the first indication of an underlying disease.
Diagnosis
Your veterinarian will need to take a thorough history. Possible head trauma or exposure to poisonous or hallucinogenic substances will be one of the main concerns. The physical examination will include a complete blood test and an electrocardiogram (EKG) to rule out disorders of the liver, kidneys, heart, and blood.
Treatment
If a cause for the seizures cannot be found, your veterinarian may send you home with anticonvulsant therapy. Further treatment will be based on how soon the next seizure occurs. If seizures are frequent, more tests will be justified. If the seizures last more than five minutes and occur as often as every 30 days, your veterinarian may prescribe continuous anticonvulsant therapy.
Living and Management
Follow your veterinarian’s directions regarding the medications. Anticonvulsant medication should not be discontinued suddenly. Your veterinarian will provide guidelines for when the medication should be discontinued.
Patricia J. Gregory passed away peacefully on October 9, 2017 at her home. Pat was born in Detroit, Michigan on January 20, 1940 to Viola and Henry Rowland, and raised by her dad Frank Frisbie. She had multiple jobs throughout her life including, Yankees Department Store, State of Michigan, and General Motors. She ended her work career with the Haslett Public Schools as a bus driver and cook at Wilkshire Elementary. In her younger years, Pat was a competive roller skater. She told many stories of competing with her best friend Joannie and others. Pat was fortunate to find true love in her later years.
She married Omar Gregory and they lived happily until his death in November of 2014. Pat was a member of Calvary Baptist Church. She was a bus driver to many. She was loved and will be missed.
She is survived by her children Marvin, Laurie (Robert), Jerry, Aaron (Krista), Rod (Roberta), Michael, Chuck (Kim), Paul, Scott (Robin), Joe (Sandy) Tom, 32 grandchildren and 53 great-grandchildren. Her brothers Hank (Darlene) and Ray (Fran) Rowland, sister, Jean Cohcran and sister-in-law Audrey Frisbie. Special friend, Brenda Underwood, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Omar, sons Chuck and Randy Humble, grandson Chris Knight and granddaughter Mary Gregory, and brother Jerry Frisbie.
Funeral Services will be held Friday, October 13, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at the Calvary Baptist Church, 14769 Wood Street, Lansing, MI 48906. The family will receive friends at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes East Chapel, 1730 East Grand River, East Lansing. Thursday, October 12, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Interment will be at Crestview Cemetery at Houghton Arrangements under the direction of Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home, East Lansing, MI.
Lois Nell Lowe
Lois Nell Lowe, 88 of Maple Rapids, MI passed away at her home on Wednesday, October 11, 2017. Lois was born on July 29, 1929 in Matherton, MI the daughter of George and Hazel (Tyler) Chick. She graduated as valedictorian from Maple Rapids High School and on December 20, 1947 she married Rowland Lowe in Clinton County, MI. He preceded her in death in 1986. Lois worked for Sealed Power Corp for 5 years and then she was office manager for Dr. Steigerwald for 29 years. She worked part time for Osgood Funeral Home as receptionist at the Maple Rapids Branch and she also served as Village Clerk for a few years. Lois loved her family, grandchildren, great grandchildren and watching and feeding hummingbirds.
Surviving her are her children, Heather (Bill) Carr of Wyoming, MI, Amy (Ron) Ryan of St. Johns, Bona (Jim) Henry, Carol (Randal) Ryan, Mark Lowe and Kelly (Mitch) Leiby all of Maple Rapids, MI. She has 12 grandchildren and 27 great grandchildren. Sister-in-law Jan Chick. Lois was preceded in death by her brothers, Bill Chick, Don Tyler and Clare Chick.
Funeral services will be held at Keck-Coleman Funeral Home in St. Johns on Friday, October 13, 2017 at 2:00 P.M. with Pastor Kathy Leydorf-Keck officiating. Burial will be at Sowle Cemetery. The family will receive friends and relatives at the funeral home, 12 noon until service time on Friday. Memorials may be given to the charity of the donor’s choice.
Linda K. Langlois
Linda K. Langlois died Wednesday, October 11, 2017 at the age of 72. She was born March 11, 1945 in Midland Park, Augusta, MI the daughter of Russell and Rita (Miller) Vandenboss. Linda attended St. Joseph Catholic Church in St. Johns and was a sales clerk at the St. Johns K-Mart. On June 13, 1964 she married Lee Langlois and he survives her.
Also surviving are her children, Cathy Langlois of Holt, Shelly Head (Jeremy Praay) of Perry, Charles “Chuck” (Kellie) Langlois of St. Johns; five grandchildren; four great grandchildren; two sisters, Mary “Polecat” Hicks of Marshall, Alice Vandenboss of Battle Creek; four brothers, Alan “Runt” (Reva) Vandenboss of Battle Creek, Don “Bug” (Ardis) Vandenboss of Coldwater, Jim “Jug” (Kim) Vandenboss and Dick (Kathy) Vandenboss all of Battle Creek; 20 nieces and nephews; two sisters-in-law, Judy Hoeve of St. Johns and Barb Hayes of DeWitt. She was preceded in death by a son, Timothy, a grandson, Shaun Head and a sister, Joyce LaNoue.
Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM Saturday, October 14, 2017 at Keck-Coleman Funeral Home, St. Johns with Chaplain Dave Cleveland officiating. Interment will follow at Mt. Rest Cemetery. The family will receive relatives and friends 5:00 to 8:00 PM Friday at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.
David Russell Swanson
David Russell Swanson, age 95 of St. Johns, MI, passed away Monday, October 9, 2017 at his home
Funeral Services will be held at Lowe United Methodist Church, St. Johns, MI on Thursday, October 12, 2017 at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor Kathy Leydorf-Keck officiating. Burial will take place at Sowle Cemetery, Essex Township, MI. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 11, 2017 from 2-8 P.M. with family present from 2-4 and 6-8 P.M. at Smith Family Funeral Homes – Osgood Chapel, St. Johns, MI.
Memorials may be made to the Lowe United Methodist Church. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes – Osgood Chapel, St. Johns, MI.
Ella C. Dellamater
Ella C. (Gaiser, Kehr) Dellamater finished her journey on earth on September 30, 2017. For most of her life she resided in St. Johns, MI, most recently at Grace Haven. Born on December 15, 1916 in Worthington, MN, she was the eldest daughter of John and J. Esther (Linn) Gaiser and one of five siblings. As a young woman she studied cosmetology and worked as a hair dresser at various times and places. It was an early client who introduced Ella to her first husband Robert Kehr, the father of her two sons, Tom (Sue) and Charlie (Linda). Widowed in 1963 Ella provided love, direction and discipline raising two teenage sons. Ella’s devotion to the boys was always evident. Her home had the welcome mat out and provided safe, wholesome entertainment for family and friends.
In 1969 Ella married Dale Dellamater. They enjoyed over twenty years of marriage together before Dale’s passing. During those decades travel was paramount. Ultimately Ella and Dale settled in Arizona where Ella remained until 2005. Upon her return to St. Johns Ella resumed her membership in St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. Her Catholic faith was important to her. In her free time at Clinton Commons and later Grace Haven she was a regular at Bingo, card games, exercise and Bible study.
She is survived by her sister Shirley, daughter-in-law Linda, her son Tom (Sue), 7 grandchildren Rob (Molly), Bryan (Amy), Nikole (Nate), Greg (Rachael), Brett, Tammi (Jason), and Brooke. Also 10 great-grandchildren with two more great-granddaughters expected soon. Preceding Ella in death were her three brothers, Paul, Ken and Jim. Her youngest son Charlie passed in April 2016.
A celebration of Ella’s life will be 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Saturday, October 28, 2017, at Ryan’s Roadhouse, 902 E. State St., St. Johns, MI 48879; please dress casual. In lieu of flowers please make contributions to: Grace Hospice, 2205 Jolly Road, Suite C, Okemos, MI 48864. Arrangements are by the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel.
Linda M. Downs
Linda M. Downs, widow of Terry L. Downs, died September 26, 2017 in Raleigh, NC at the age of 71.
She is survived by her son, Robert Downs and his wife Suzanne of Raleigh, NC; her daughter Janis Tipton, her husband Jeremy and their children James and Madison of St. Johns, MI; her sister Jeannie Marion, her husband Malcolm of Rock Hill, SC and their children Jane Wilson and Matthew Marion. Mrs. Downs resided in Fayetteville, NC for over 38 years prior to moving to Raleigh, NC in 2016.
Memorials may be made to the UNC Children’s Hospital, Transitions Lifecare of Wake County or the charity of choice.
Marriage licenses filed the week of October 2, 2017
George Elmer Russell, 60 of St. Johns and Donna Louise Thompson, 62 of Perrinton
Carl John Moore, 45 of DeWitt and Rebekah Dawn Bidelman, 44 of DeWitt
Devin Thomas Richmond, 24 of Lansing and Robin Jeanne-Janice Holbrook, 24 of Lansing
Adam John Shinaver, 26 of St. Johns and Amanda Elizabeth Luttig, 26 of St. Johns
Michael Andrew Duncan, 38 of DeWitt and Veronica Suzette Miller, 40 of DeWitt
Jordan Joseph Pollard, 27 of DeWitt and Britny Dawn Livingston, 26 of DeWitt
Douglas Edward Pumford, 48 of Laingsburg and Shelby Milka Price, 35 of Laingsburg
Paul Richard Jaques, 41 of DeWitt and Whitney Ann Perez, 32 of DeWitt
James Robert Telfer, 28 of Eagle and Rachael Lynne Griffith, 27 of Novi
Jacob Stephen Hindbaugh, 25 of St. Johns and Megan Lynne Coulter, 24 of St. Johns
Scott James Seddon, 27 of Bath and Ashley Chantelle Wahr, 24 of Bath
Jacob Ethan Garner, 25 of Laingsburg and Jordon Elizabeth Robertson, 25 of Laingsburg
Matt King, an amazing tribute artist for the past 25 years, will bring his wonderful impersonation of the famous Beatles singer. Matt has gained international fame as an award-winning Elvis impersonator, something he knew he wanted to do since the 8th grade. Matt has been performing his tribute to Elvis here in St. Johns at the Performance Shell for the past eight years.
Celebrates 80th birthday
On October 25, 1917, Louis Frederick (Fred) Mayers was born in DeWitt, Michigan to Louis and Ethyl Mayers. The family moved to St. Johns and resided in Clinton County from then on.
Dale Walter Knight passed away October15, 2017. Dale was the middle son of five boys born to Oliver and Gina Knight on December 4, 1932. The Knight boys worked the Knight Farm, hunted and played together for their entire lives. Oliver Knight proudly watched and participated in the daily baseball while Gina Louise Knight cooked. Grandma had one rule at dinner: no one touches the food till she had her plate. Apparently five boys all over six feet and weighing near 200 Lbs. would inhale a meal in minutes. Grandma had to make sure she got her share.
Doris E. Byrnes, 87 of Ovid passed away at Hazel Findlay Country Manor on Friday, October 13, 2017. Doris was born on March 10, 1930 in Victor Township the daughter of Floyd and Irene (Austin) Upton. She graduated from Ovid High School in the class of 1947 and on June 19, 1948 she married Hugh Byrnes in Laingsburg. He preceded her in death on September 8, 1985. Doris was a homemaker and also worked for the Ovid Post Office for 23 years before her retirement. She was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church, the Acme Club, enjoyed a good book, musical theatre and lunches out with family and friends.
Camille Louise Stiffler, age 58, of St. Johns, MI passed away Thursday, October 12, 2017.
Illustrator Gijsbert van Frankenhuyzen’s newest children’s book, Skydiving Beavers of Idaho; a true story, was honored with the 2017 Preferred Choice Award, awarded by 2017 Creative Child Magazine Awards Program consisting of moms and educators. 
At the Annual Association of Great Lakes Outdoor Writer’s fall conference held at Lake of the Woods, Minnesota, Bob Holzhei placed third in the Awards-In-Craft Competition in the Best of Newspaper Category. 
Patricia J. Gregory passed away peacefully on October 9, 2017 at her home. Pat was born in Detroit, Michigan on January 20, 1940 to Viola and Henry Rowland, and raised by her dad Frank Frisbie. She had multiple jobs throughout her life including, Yankees Department Store, State of Michigan, and General Motors. She ended her work career with the Haslett Public Schools as a bus driver and cook at Wilkshire Elementary. In her younger years, Pat was a competive roller skater. She told many stories of competing with her best friend Joannie and others. Pat was fortunate to find true love in her later years. 
Lois Nell Lowe, 88 of Maple Rapids, MI passed away at her home on Wednesday, October 11, 2017. Lois was born on July 29, 1929 in Matherton, MI the daughter of George and Hazel (Tyler) Chick. She graduated as valedictorian from Maple Rapids High School and on December 20, 1947 she married Rowland Lowe in Clinton County, MI. He preceded her in death in 1986. Lois worked for Sealed Power Corp for 5 years and then she was office manager for Dr. Steigerwald for 29 years. She worked part time for Osgood Funeral Home as receptionist at the Maple Rapids Branch and she also served as Village Clerk for a few years. Lois loved her family, grandchildren, great grandchildren and watching and feeding hummingbirds.
Linda K. Langlois died Wednesday, October 11, 2017 at the age of 72. She was born March 11, 1945 in Midland Park, Augusta, MI the daughter of Russell and Rita (Miller) Vandenboss. Linda attended St. Joseph Catholic Church in St. Johns and was a sales clerk at the St. Johns K-Mart. On June 13, 1964 she married Lee Langlois and he survives her. 
David Russell Swanson, age 95 of St. Johns, MI, passed away Monday, October 9, 2017 at his home
Ella C. (Gaiser, Kehr) Dellamater finished her journey on earth on September 30, 2017. For most of her life she resided in St. Johns, MI, most recently at Grace Haven. Born on December 15, 1916 in Worthington, MN, she was the eldest daughter of John and J. Esther (Linn) Gaiser and one of five siblings. As a young woman she studied cosmetology and worked as a hair dresser at various times and places. It was an early client who introduced Ella to her first husband Robert Kehr, the father of her two sons, Tom (Sue) and Charlie (Linda). Widowed in 1963 Ella provided love, direction and discipline raising two teenage sons. Ella’s devotion to the boys was always evident. Her home had the welcome mat out and provided safe, wholesome entertainment for family and friends.